Hype for the iPhone launch on June 29 is picking up steam around the Web.

Eight days! In only eight days (after this post) the iPhone will be released to the technology-loving public. The thing I'm most amazed about is the hype this thing is generating. I'm definitely excited and have been a supplier of hype myself in this very blog, but I wasn't prepared for the sheer volume of information and rumors surrounding a phone that hasn't even seen the light of day yet (unless you count those lucky Apple employees). The hype is reaching such a feverish pitch at this point that some Mac rumor sites, like the appropriately named MacRumors.com, are offering buying strategies to obtain an iPhone.

Both AT&T and Apple are preparing for possible logistical problems. AT&T has hired 2,000 temporary employees to help handle the launch and also put out a memo (via BoyGeniusReport.com) concerning crowd control (Read: stanchions) when the doors finally open. One AT&T store will be giving out wristbands at the 4:30 p.m. closing time to those who are interested in buying at 6:00 p.m....What's that? You haven't heard about the closing of stores? Both Apple and AT&T will be closing their doors on June 29 at 4:30 p.m. to get ready for the 6:00 p.m. launch. What employees will be doing behind those closed doors is anyone's guess (Tethering the phones to the display tables? Putting on white Apple-logo jumpsuits? Eating their last meals? Changing into iRiot gear?). Clearly they're expecting a big turnout and with all the hype the iPhone is getting, I think their launch expectations will be fulfilled.

What do you think? Is it going to be a mad rush to Apple and AT&T stores? Will people spend the night outside stores for a phone? Are you over it already? Let me know in the comments!

Jason Parker has been at CNET for more than 13 years. He is the Senior Editor in charge iOS software and has become an expert reviewer of the software that runs on each new Apple device. He now spends most of his time covering Apple iOS releases and third-party apps.